Find an Accountability Buddy
Exercise is easier with support — find a buddy who lifts you up and keeps you moving.
1 min read
Starting an exercise routine is easier with someone by your side. An accountability buddy boosts your motivation, commitment, and enjoyment.
Why buddies help:
- You’re more likely to show up when someone’s counting on you
- Encouragement during tough days helps build consistency
- Shared goals make movement more fun
- You’ll push yourself further with the support of a friend
Can’t find someone nearby? Connect with a virtual buddy or join a group online or locally. You're not alone — and together, it's easier.
Related guides
- GuideOnline communities and classesOnline groups and classes look about as helpful as in-person ones, though they tend to raise activity only a little. They suit you best if getting to a class is hard. Start with people you know or a free local group, and treat any online option as a trial you can leave.
- GuideThe support around youCompany and encouragement are the best-supported kinds of help: someone to be active with, and kind words rather than pressure. Family, friends and local walking groups can all provide them, and helping others can bring connection too. It works differently for different people, so choose who you involve.
- GuideAccountability that helps, not pressuresAccountability helps most when it is one supportive person who shares your goal, plus a simple written record of your progress. Announcing a goal doesn't reliably help, and support that takes away your choices can backfire. Keep it low-key, and ease off if it starts to feel like pressure.
- GuidePets as activity companionsDog owners tend to walk more than people without a dog, and the extra activity seems to come from walking the dog regularly, not from owning one. You don't need a dog to be active. Treat dog walking as one way to move more, and walk it safely.
- GuideWorking with a trainer or coachA trainer or coach looks most worthwhile if you have a long-term health condition, or if you want help with balance and strength. For a condition, look for someone with advanced training, such as an exercise physiologist or physiotherapist, and ask about ongoing support rather than a single session.
- GuideExercise buddiesThe easiest way to find an exercise buddy is to join a group walk, or ask one friend or family member to walk with you. Keep the plan easy and regular, and make it about time together. Walking with someone is also safer than walking alone.
Sources
Want help putting this into practice?
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